The Transfer Tavern

Keeping Karius only spells bad news for Liverpool and their title hopes

Liverpool lumbered to a 3-2 victory over local rivals Tranmere Rovers in the latest pre-season friendly on Tuesday evening.

The Reds played perfectly in the first half with two goals from Rafael Camacho, his first senior strikes for the club, and a goal from Adam Lallana giving them a healthy lead. Jurgen Klopp rung the changes for the second half with Loris Karius replacing Danny Ward between the sticks. Following his errors in the Champions League final, the German was at fault again as he spilt a Tranmere free-kick allowing Jonny Smith to tap in.

Klopp insists he is happy with Karius as his number one despite the errors which cost Liverpool the Champions League trophy. However, the mistake against Tranmere further highlights the need for the Reds to sign a goalkeeper. Landing a new number one should be a priority and needs to happen as soon as possible.

Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak would be a dream signing, but a move for the Slovakian international would be a financial nightmare. Roma’s Alisson would also be a great addition. However, Real Madrid could lead the race for his signature, such is their pulling power. Instead, the Reds should attempt to sign Leicester City stopper – Kasper Schmeichel.

Valued at £9m by Transfermarkt, the Danish international is proven in the Premier League and would be a huge upgrade on Karius. He has emerged as one of the best keepers in the division in recent years and scooped a Premier League winners medal back in 2016. Last season, he averaged 2.8 saves per game in the Premier League (WhoScored), significantly more than Karius who averaged just 1.6 per game.

If Liverpool are serious about challenging for the title, they cannot go into the new season with Karius as their number one.